The Lily Cupboardby Shulamith Ley Oppenheim
Objectives: Students should be able to:
- Understand what a hero does, and what a heroic cast is.
- Understand the concepts of persecution and hiding.
- Identify ways the Nazis persecuted Jews.
- Recognize and understand the courage and heroism of families that took in children and risked their own lives.
- Analyze and understand the reasons and motivations that caused certain people to take a stand.
- Grades PreK-2
- SS.A.2.1.3
- Grades 3-5
- SS.A.5.2.6, 1.2.1, 2.2.3, 2.2.4
View all Sunshine State Standards
Story Summary:
Miriam, a young Jewish child is sent away by her parents to live with a Gentile family in the country. She must hide in the family's cupboard when the Nazis come looking for Jews. The simple story is accompanied by warm, colorful illustrations and a strong text.
Concept Summary:
This story explores actions and feelings of people involved in a terrible time in history. Heroism and goodness are demonstrated by the family that hides and cares for Miriam. The story gives authenticity not only to the harsh physical dangers, but also to the candid characterizations, and the honesty about how fear made people act. When the Nazis invade Holland, Miriam's parents send her to the country to be hidden. Miriam becomes friends with their son Nello and together they take care of a rabbit. During the time they spend together, they try to understand what war is all about. Seen through the eyes of young children, this book will help children identify with suffering and heroism of this period of history.
Suggested Topics for Discussion and Responding:
- What can one learn about the Netherlands from the illustrations in this book?
- What do the illustrations reveal about Miriam's family?
- Why do you think Nello's family took Miriam into hiding in their home?
- What chances were they taking?
- Why were they willing to risk their lives?
- Predict the outcome of the story.
- Discuss heroic behavior and what it means to be a rescuer.
- Illustrate how parents keep children safe--compare to the time of the Holocaust and contrast.
- Lead a discussion of heroes and heroism.
Suggested Activities:
- Invite a hidden child survivor to share with the class.
- Write a class letter to a hidden child survivor and ask them specific questions.
A Teacher's Guide to the Holocaust
Produced by the Florida Center for Instructional Technology,
College of Education, University of South Florida © 1997-2013.